Josh Huesser looks forward to bringing chicken sandwiches and smiles – as well as positive local impact – to the London community as the new Owner/Operator of Chick-fil-A Wharncliffe and Wonderland

Chick-fil-A® Owner/Operator Josh Huesser never underestimates the importance of a good first impression. That’s why he’s excited to introduce the Chick-fil-A brand to London as the local Owner/Operator of Chick-fil-A Wharncliffe and Wonderland, which is slated to open in late 2023.  

Leaning into the restaurant industry 

Born in Kitchener, Ontario, Josh didn’t expect to trade snow skis for sunshine by moving to Florida after marrying his wife – and also didn’t anticipate that one day he would establish a career in the restaurant industry.  

With a bachelor’s degree in history and post-graduate studies in sales and operations, Josh began his career in sales and business development before pivoting to another brand in the quick-service restaurant industry. At that time, he began to take an interest in his uncle’s role as a local Chick-fil-A Owner/Operator in Pennsylvania and found himself gravitating towards Chick-fil-A. He eventually became a director at a local Chick-fil-A restaurant, where he quickly established himself as a leader with a passion for mentoring others within the restaurant.  

As Josh reflected on his potential growth and professional development with Chick-fil-A – and his desire to return to Canada – applying to become a local Owner/Operator emerged as the perfect opportunity to balance his personal and professional aspirations.  

Getting back to his roots (and his home hockey team) 

In addition to embracing the opportunities for leadership and community impact as a local Chick-fil-A Owner/Operator, the chance to return to Canada with his wife, Julie, and their two young children has also fueled Josh’s excitement for his restaurant opening.  

“When I was living in the U.S., I was always known as ‘the guy who loves Canada,’” he explains. “Especially for my love of our pro hockey team in Toronto. It’s part of the cultural fabric of our family – we all bleed blue because it’s the honourable and right thing to do. And, of course, everyone has to know the team chant!” 

Introducing Canadians to Chick-fil-A 

“Many people in Canada are excited that Chick-fil-A is growing here, but most people don’t know what the brand is truly about,” says Josh. “I can’t wait to introduce the London, Ontario community to Chick-fil-A and create positive and memorable experiences for guests who visit my restaurant.”  

And for those who may not know what to order, Josh recommends his favourite go-to meal – the No. 1 Chick-fil-A® Chicken Sandwich meal with cheese and extra pickles. “I love pickles!” he exclaims. In fact, his personal record is having 24 pickles on a single chicken sandwich.  

Giving back to his team and his community 

Beyond serving chicken sandwiches, Josh looks forward to serving the Team Members working in his restaurant, and also giving back to the local community.  

“My vision is for this Chick-fil-A restaurant to be known as the most caring business in London,” he explains. “I want to help my team grow and equip them to care for our Guests.”  

Josh says he wants to meet each of his Team Members where they are on their own personal and professional journeys, helping them map out a specific plan to help them observe their progress and achieve their dreams. From goals ranging from getting a driver’s license to pursuing a graduate degree to learning the ins and outs of the restaurant business, Josh wants to be there every step of the way. 

When it comes to giving back to the London community, Josh is passionate about helping local Canadians experiencing homelessness. Through the Chick-fil-A Shared Table™ program, his restaurant will donate extra food to a local nonprofit to help feed those in need the neighbourhood.  

“I’m here to serve my team and I’m here to serve my community,” he says. “For me, that’s a privilege – not a right – which I don’t take for granted.”  

Our growth in Canada 
  
Chick-fil-A will expand its long-term investment in Canada, growing to a total of 20 stores by 2025, with plans to open 7-10 restaurants per year thereafter. The company is looking for people who are passionate about the work of serving great food and providing exceptional hospitality in a fast-paced environment as independent franchised Owners/Operators of Chick–fil–A restaurant businesses. Learn more about franchising opportunities by visiting our Franchising page. 
  
About Chick-fil-A, Inc.   

Atlanta-based Chick-fil-A, Inc. is a restaurant company known for the Original Chick-fil-A® Chicken Sandwich and signature hospitality. Represented by more than 190,000 Team Members, Operators and Staff, Chick-fil-A® restaurants serve guests freshly prepared food at more than 2,800 restaurants in the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada. The family-owned and privately held restaurant company was founded in 1967 by S. Truett Cathy and is committed to serving the local communities in which its franchised restaurants operate. 
  
Known for its leadership and growth opportunities, in 2022 Chick-fil-A was named a Best Employer in America by Forbes and a top company for career opportunities for Black employees by Glassdoor. The company was also awarded the Employee’s Choice by Glassdoor honouring top CEOs and was named a Culture 500 Culture Champion in 2020. A leader in customer service, Chick-fil-A was named QSR magazine’s Drive-Thru Restaurant of the Year in 2021. More information on Chick-fil-A is available at www.chick-fil-a.ca and @ChickfilANews.